Step right up, folks! The Philippines is a place teeming with many Filipino culture shaped by centuries of history and the arrival of various groups of people. But wait, there’s more! Even though it’s a cultural melting pot, the Philippines still haunts some bizarre customs and traditions that might pique your interest. So, without further ado, here are the top ten quirky Filipino cultures that will leave you scratching your head!
Kamayan Dining
If you’re looking for a unique and intimate dining experience, look no further than Kamayan! This Filipino tradition involves gathering around a table covered in banana leaves, with various delicious dishes spread out before you. But here’s the twist: instead of using utensils, you’ll be encouraged to dig in with your hands! This ancient practice is believed to foster a sense of closeness and community, making it the perfect way to celebrate special occasions with family and friends.
Mano Po
In the Philippines, it is customary to show respect to elders by performing the “mano po” gesture. This involves taking the elder’s hand and placing it on your forehead as a sign of respect. It is also a way of asking for their blessing.
Bayanihan
Bayanihan is a captivating Filipino tradition of people coming together in a communal effort to support one another. It involves offering assistance to neighbors, friends, and family members during difficult times by sharing resources, providing emotional support, and offering a helping hand in labor.
Superstitious Beliefs
Filipinos are known for their superstitious beliefs, ranging from the bizarre to the downright terrifying. Some of these beliefs include not sweeping the floor at night, avoiding the color black during weddings, and not singing or whistling inside the house at night.
Palabas
Palabas is a Filipino word that means “performance” or “show.” It is a form of entertainment that is popular in rural areas where traveling theater groups perform plays or musicals in town squares or makeshift stages.
Balut
Balut is a popular Filipino delicacy that is made from a fertilized duck egg. It is boiled and eaten as a snack. It is a favorite among Filipinos despite its bizarre appearance and texture.
Jeepneys
Jeepneys are a common mode of public transportation in the Philippines. They are brightly colored vehicles that are often decorated with religious icons, pop culture references, and other quirky designs. However, we may not be able to see this kind of Jeepney in the near Future, click here to see why.
Pabitin
Pabitin is a traditional Filipino game that is often played during fiestas and other celebrations. It involves hanging prizes on a bamboo frame, which is lowered and raised. At the same time, players try to grab as many prizes as possible.
Tsinelas
In the Philippines, tsinelas or slippers are an important part of Filipino culture. They are often worn outdoors and considered disrespectful to wear inside the house.
Nipa Hut
Nipa huts are traditional Filipino houses that are made from bamboo and nipa leaves. They are still common in rural areas. Many Filipinos prefer to live in them because of their natural cooling properties and low cost.
These are just some of the weird cultures in the Philippines, making it a unique and fascinating country to explore. Despite their oddities, they are all deeply ingrained in the Filipino way of life and reflect the country’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
